Across cultures, the sharing of life stories is one of the most precious gifts that people can give to each other. In 1ZERO9, Joey invites the reader to experience the struggles, joys, tragedies, and triumphs of a young Latino man trying to carve out a life for himself. At a young age, Joey is faced with several adult decisions that will shape his future. He struggles to balance the family values instilled in him as a child with his personal and professional goals. He faces environmental challenges that might lead the average person to give up hope for a better life. Throughout his journey, Joey uses his life experiences to help him become a better person and to guide him towards a career of reaching out to others in need. In sharing his life story, Joey touches our lives with his courage, honesty, and determination to "keep it real."

Margaret A. Herrick, Ph.D. Professor
Counseling and Human Services Department
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

"1ZERO9 is a compelling autobiography of a young man who, despite the appeal of the streets and a personal tragedy, not only transcends and survives, but thrives in life. From life as a hood to a professional social worker-- through sheer grit, courage and determination, Joey Negron provides urban youths and many others with real hope and someone to model after."

- Phyllis N. Black, Ph.D., ACSW
Director of Marywood University School of Social Work

"Joey Negron's memoir, 1ZERO9 is amazing! The book took me on a rollercoaster of emotions. I laughed, cried, and got angry, but most of all I was inspired. I believe those are all the ingredients to a great read. I thought it was so easy to read, in the sense that I didn't have to break out the dictionary to follow along, which always is a plus in my world, considering I'm in college and we have to do that with EVERY book. I was inspired by 1ZERO9 in many ways. It brought me back to memories in my life that I made a goal to forget. 1ZERO9 believe it or not made me face my past and look forward to my future. I think having 1ZERO9 within the school system would inspire so many kids to want to do better. I think most of the youth today lack the will to want to do great things in life. 1ZERO9 can make an impact in society for the good."

- Catrina (college student)

Metamorphic, Joey comes full circle and changes his lenses to see clearly a new young girl in his life. He extracts strength from his supportive community and family - just like an "alley-oop" pass in the game of basketball - and comes out on top with a "dunk". 1 zero 9 is a must-read not only for the “average Joe”, but for teenagers, parents, college and graduate students, social workers, teachers and professionals.

- AuthorHouse

"1zero9 is a very powerful biographical account. Joey Negron eloquently conveys the essence of growing up urban and then being in an environment where you are the minority as opposed to the majority. You can actually feel the roller coaster of emotions that he has gone through with the loss of his first son and the birth of his first daughter, when you read this book,"

- Onelia Alvarado, reporter La Voz newspaper in Reading, PA.

One Zero Nine is an inspirational memoir that people can relate to. The author does an excellent job allowing the reader to feel the raw emotions through his creative writing. Young teenage parents that are going through adversity with having a baby, can really identify with this book in a close way. If you are up for an inspirational ride, then One Zero Nine is the book to read.

- A reviewer, an avid reader, 07/31/2007 posted on Barnes and Noble.com

Hey Joey!!! I saw you at the LEAP Camp this year. I was one of the people that just helped out whenever I could. Anyhow, I received your book on Wednesday and I completed it that. The book was amazing. It did make me cry. You are so right about the things you wrote about social workers not wanting to go into the hood and what not. I totally agree with you. I am a senior in college and I am majoring in Social Work so I can't wait to graduate. Your family is absolutely adorable. Your daughter is a cutie. I wish you the best of luck in life and may God bless you and your family!!!! Take care and be safe!!!

- Jeannie